happyly approved

Matchbox - Penn Quarter

750 E St NW Washington, DC 20004

Monday through Thursday 11am - 10:30pm, Friday 11am - 1am, Saturday 10am - 1am, Sunday 10am - 10:30pm

$$$

restaurants

A kid-friendly D.C. area chain that is equally pleasing to adult companions

Matchbox is a trendy, thin-crust pizza restaurant and has grown to be a well known local chain over the years. It’s name evokes all that it’s known for, including a warm and cozy feel and the aroma of lightly charred pizzas emanating from its brick ovens. The menu options are delicious, simple, unique and lighter than the greasy, heavy slice unfortunately conjured in the mind when you hear “pizza” these days. 

The pizza of the month will keep you on your toes, your tastebuds primed for a new culinary creation. But Matchbox has a nice variety of options beyond pizza that are classic, healthy options, and appealing to even the pickiest kids. Alternatively, if you want some upscale options, they have filet mignon and ribeye, craft burgers and sea bass, and, if you’re feeling indulgent, sweet shakes and desserts. Matchbox’s beer, wine and specialty drinks list for those 21 and older is quite comprehensive for those long lazy brunches… or anytime.

The service at the dozen DC are locations is friendly and energetic, and our experience across the numerous locations in the area has been very positive. They are consistently very kid and family-friendly, offering larger dishes perfect for sharing, and an atmosphere that feels family oriented. 

The National Portrait Gallery is right next door. Although it seems like it might not be a great place for kids, they have great programming and kids always learn something new. The National Building Museum is a few minutes walk from here and its interactive exhibits are a joy for all. Both of these museums are great places to spends an afternoon after a delicious Matchbox lunch. The Gallery Pl-Chinatown Metro Station stops a few blocks from the resturant. 

Features

Restrooms Good for All Ages Restaurant
Thoughtfully captured by:
Caitlin Iseler
Caitlin Iseler, happyly founder and CEO, was born in New York and is one of eight children. Her favorite holiday is Thanksgiving and the chance to sit at one table with her favorite 40 people. Caitlin, her outdoor loving husband, Thomas, and daughter, Hanah, live in Virginia Beach. She is also blessed to be a bonus mom to 2 incredible humans, Max & Elizabeth. Being a mom has always been something she dreamt of and it brings her joy beyond measure. Before starting happyly, Caitlin spent 15 years working in executive search with technology companies, most recently with Korn Ferry. In what seems like a lifetime ago, she attended the University of Virginia and was a member of the National & ACC Championship Teams, a gift that keeps giving.
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